6 Must-Sees in the Bay of Naples

Rich in history and culture, with celebrated cuisine and stunning landscapes, Italy is truly one of the world’s most incredible sailing destinations. The Bay of Naples region and the Amalfi Coast are shining examples of this. The water is a beautiful blue, and the sailing is as rich and rewarding as any part of the Western Mediterranean.

Set off from Procida to explore the Bay of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, the Phlegraean Islands and beyond. From volcanoes to ancient ruins, and blue grottos to chic cafes, here are our absolute musts when sailing around the area.

Procida is the Bay of Naples' most prominent charter base, and is the ideal launchpad for sailing trips northwest to Ponza, or south towards the glitz of capri and the Amalfi Coast. Striking a happy middle ground between the glamorous Capri and rugged Ischia, the island of Procida is located in the NW of the Bay of Naples.

The island’s eponymous main town is a burst of brightly-coloured houses that mingle into a vibrant backdrop for the emerald waters. Just 4nm to the east sits the sheltered Porto Miseno, known throughout the region for its wonderful fresh mussels.

Arguably one of Italy’s most stunning islands, Capri boasts dazzling waters and fascinating Ancient Greek history. If you’re sailing there, moor up in Marina Grande to explore the quaint local area and rugged landscape.

Or sail around to the famous Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), where you The sunlight against the blue sea illuminates the cavern, making it the most famous sight on Capri island.

At 1281m high, Mount Vesuvius is not quite Everest, but is still an incredible achievement to tick off your bucket list. Boasting phenomenal views, Vesuvius is also rich in wildlife and nature.

It may be responsible for one of the world's most catastrophic eruptions, destroying Pompeii, but today it is dormant and sits peacefully with no bubbling lava in its crater (thankfully!).

On a hot dusty day, the hike may get a bit tiring, but there are kiosks selling water all the way up and a scenic place to rest when you reach the summit. A great thing to do on your last day in Italy.

Vesuvius is a 20-minute taxi ride from Naples marina.

Sitting in the shadow of the menacing Mount Vesuvius lies the archaeological site of Pompeii. Once a thriving ancient city, now the area is just ruins, infamously destroyed by a Vesuvius’ volcanic eruption in 79 A.D.

Wander through the cobbled streets and impressive buildings to fully absorb Pompeii’s history and the tragedies of its people and culture.

Consider joining a guided tour - the guides are incredibly knowledgeable and will point out parts of the city you wouldn’t have noticed otherwise.

In season, a market sits outside the entrance which is full of gifts so you can remember your experience.

Pompeii is easy to get to from the marina in Sorrento; just hop on the Circumvesuviana train, and you’ll get to Pompeii in 20 minutes.The train station is directly opposite the archaeological site.

Also known as the Land of Mermaids, this alluring town is the gateway to the Amalfi Coast.

Sorrento sits along the clifftops around the corner from the Bay of Naples, and is a must-see part of the coast.

Stop off along the Sorrentine peninsula and wander streets full of incredible restaurants and cafes, ideal for some irresistible cuisine, an espresso or a shot of limoncello.

Or, venture down one of the many staircases or winding roads leading down to the sea and the harbourside.

The nearby village of Sant’Agnello also boasts incredible views, sunsets over Naples and picturesque architecture.

A beautiful stretch of land with steep peaks and waterfront cliffs that dive dramatically to the sea, the Amalfi Coast is a spectacular place to sail.

The geography of the area make the sailing at times unpredictable, with average winds in the Beaufort force 2-4 range, but the views are completely breath-taking.

Vibrant, pastel-hued towns add bursts of colour to the coast. Mooring fees are among some of the more expensive in the Mediterranean, but there are several anchorages nearby.

The town of Amalfi is the absolute stand out, boasting UNESCO World Heritage status, and an abundance of marble statues and whitewashed piazzas.

Dug into a gorge in the side of the mountain, the town can trace its history back to Roman aristocrats, who built holiday villas here in the first century AD.

The food is a real highlight, from fresh seafood to local salsicciotto sausage.

As these highlights show, the region world-famous for volcanoes, pizza and ice cream has a lot more going for it, with so much to be discovered and plenty of rewarding sailing to be had around the Bay of Naples, Pontine Islands and Amalfi Coast.

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